Syrian rebels oust Bashar al-Assad, marking end of civil war and family rule

Syrian rebels have ousted President Bashar al-Assad, marking the end of a 13-year civil war and over 50 years of Assad family rule. The militia alliance, led by Hayat al-Tahrir al-Sham, captured Damascus, prompting Assad to flee to Russia. International reactions are mixed, with some governments welcoming the change while expressing caution. The U.S. noted the absence of Russian, Iranian, and Hezbollah influence in Syria for the first time in years. The situation remains uncertain as the rebels prepare to establish a transitional government. The aftermath of the conflict has left Syria in ruins, requiring significant aid for rebuilding. Freed prisoners celebrated in the streets, while the rebel coalition aims to unify the country amid concerns about regional stability and ongoing threats from extremist groups.